We have studied the effects of river discharge and Daisy Lake Dam operations on the abundance and migration ecology of salmonids in the Cheakamus River since 2001. Most recently, our research has focused on how operations of the dam influence the probability of juvenile salmonids becoming stranded on the river’s edge as water levels drop. This research is highly collaborative, executed under an adaptive management framework that seeks regular feedback from a consultative committee of First Nations, conservations organizations, and stakeholders. Results provide recommendations to dam operations that may lower stranding risk, for both juvenile and adult salmonids.
We have a long history of working on the Cheakamus River. We ran a juvenile salmon trapping program from 2001 to 2018 that utilized a spline model to produce annual juvenile salmon outmigration estimates.. We also implemented a novel Chum adult mark-recapture abundance model combining electronic resistivity counter and PIT data. Chum salmon estimates were used to develop stock-recruitment relationships to explore how discharge may be related to Chum salmon migration behaviour and spawning site selection. . Ultimately this extensive dataset is used to help enhance salmon productivity and inform management decisions that balance the needs of wild salmon with indigenous, recreational, and commercial interests in the Sea to Sky region.
